Natalia Maeva, a dedicated pulmonary hypertension advocate and double lung transplant recipient, has accomplished an incredible milestone as part of the Bulgarian transplant team. Eight years after her life-saving operation, she won a gold medal in badminton at the European Transplant Sports Championship in Lisbon, Portugal, becoming the European champion in the 50-59 age category.
The European Transplant Games took place from July 21st to July 28th, with transplanted athletes from 28 countries competing in 15 sports, including athletics, court tennis, table tennis, badminton, pétanque, and swimming. This year, Bulgaria proudly participated with its own team of 11 athletes, marking nearly a decade since their first appearance. Natalia also competed in the women’s pétanque tournament, finishing 5th in her category.
“These Games are a true celebration of life, showcasing how it can thrive despite the enormous challenges faced by the participants. Every athlete here is a winner, embodying the indomitable will to live and proving that life can overcome any obstacle,” she says.
Natalia continues to inspire us all, expressing deep gratitude to the donors. She honours her renewed life through sport, embracing each day with passion and demonstrating the incredible power of human resilience and the spirit of gratitude.
